Clearing 2026: Changing careers gave me the chance to make a difference

A University of Bedfordshire graduate has spoken about how returning to education helped him follow his passion and begin a new career helping others.

After spending 10 years working in another career, Joe Green decided to return to education and retrain in an area he was passionate about. While studying Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation at Bedfordshire, Joe balanced his studies with raising a family and took part in extracurricular activities, including hosting the University's ‘Bits of Beds’ podcast. He is now working as a Physiotherapist on an NHS contract in Bedfordshire.

For anyone considering a change of direction, looking to return to education or exploring their options, Clearing could be another way to take the next step towards a future career. The University of Bedfordshire is accepting applications until early October, with a dedicated team ready to support applicants. Call 0300 3300 073 or visit www.beds.ac.uk/clearing to find out more.

Speaking about his university experience, Joe said: "The facilities were great and I had some great placement opportunities. The lecturers and staff at the university were helpful - you got to build strong relationships which helped me in my three years. They supported me on my journey as a student, I was able to create good links throughout the university which was nice."

Joe continued: "I am currently working as a physiotherapist working on an NHS contract in Bedfordshire. The University of Bedfordshire gave me the opportunity, first of all, as I got rejected from a couple of universities and told that I needed to do a foundation degree as I had spent 10 years out of education. The lecturers were supportive and gave me the knowledge and confidence to grow as a sports therapist.

"I now have an undergraduate and master’s degree in Physiotherapy – the first person in my family to do so. I was never academic so this is a big thing!"

For more information about applying to the University of Bedfordshire via Clearing visit www.beds.ac.uk/clearing or call the Admissions team on 0300 3300 073.